Over a century later, “Shoeless” Joe Jackson may have found his spiritual successor in Drake Maye.
The New England Patriots quarterback made an interesting move on Sunday in his team’s final preseason game against the Washington Commanders.
Maye and the Patriots faced a 1st-and-10 at their own 14-yard line early in the 2nd quarter at Commanders Field in Landover, Maryland.
After taking the snap, Patriots guard Sidy Sow stepped on Maye on the back of his shoe. The rookie’s left cleat bounced cleanly as he dropped back. But Maye kept his composure and found running back JaMycal Hasty for a 14-yard gain.
DRAKE MAYE LOSES A SHOE BUT STILL MAKES THE PASS! pic.twitter.com/EEh7zPtpQs
— Ben Brown 🌻 (@BenBrownPL) 26 August 2024
Here’s a slow motion replay to appreciate “Shoeless” Drake Maye in all his glory.
Shoeless Drake Maye pic.twitter.com/vWd910zpdo
— Bussin’ with the boys (@BussinWTB) 26 August 2024
The former North Carolina product made a surprise appearance in the first half after starter Jacoby Brissett suffered a shoulder injury. The veteran quarterback was brutally hit after a missed block on Commanders edge rusher KJ Henry (video here).
Maye seized his opportunity and scored a touchdown on his first drive of the game, completing 5 of 6 passes for 71 yards to give the Patriots a 7-0 lead.
Unfortunately, the match report does not record how many shots were scored with just one shoe.